11441 Excision, other benign lesion including margins, except skin tag (unless listed elsewhere), face, ears, eyelids, nose, lips, mucous membrane; excised diameter 0.6 to 1.0 cm

Name of the Procedure:

Excision of other benign lesion including margins, except skin tag (unless listed elsewhere), face, ears, eyelids, nose, lips, mucous membrane; excised diameter 0.6 to 1.0 cm.

• Common Names: Lesion removal, benign tumor excision, cosmetic excision (for facial lesions).

Summary

The procedure involves surgically removing a non-cancerous growth from areas such as the face, ears, eyelids, nose, lips, or mucous membranes. This specific type focuses on lesions that measure between 0.6 to 1.0 cm in diameter.

Purpose

This procedure is done to address the presence of benign (non-cancerous) lesions that may be causing discomfort, interfering with function, growing, or have an undesirable appearance. The goal is to fully remove the lesion along with a margin of healthy tissue to ensure it does not recur.

Indications

• Presence of a benign lesion that is growing or changing in appearance.
• Lesions causing discomfort or interfering with normal function (e.g., vision on the eyelids).
• Aesthetic concerns due to the lesion’s location.
• Potential uncertainty about the benign nature without excision and histological examination.

Preparation

• Patients may be advised to refrain from eating or drinking for a few hours before the procedure.
• Cease certain medications that could increase bleeding risk, as advised by the healthcare provider.
• A thorough physical examination and possibly imaging tests or a biopsy may be conducted beforehand to plan the excision.

Procedure Description

1. The affected area is cleaned and marked.
2. Local anesthesia is administered to numb the area.
3. A surgical incision is made around the lesion, including an appropriate margin of normal tissue.
4. The lesion is carefully removed.
5. The site is then closed with sutures and covered with a sterile dressing.
6. The excised tissue is sent to pathology for analysis to confirm the benign nature.

Duration

Typically, the procedure takes about 30 minutes to 1 hour, depending on the complexity and exact location of the lesion.

Setting

This procedure is generally performed in an outpatient setting such as a dermatologist’s office, outpatient clinic, or surgical center.

Personnel

• Dermatologist or surgeon: Performs the excision.
• Nurse or medical assistant: Assists with the procedure and patient care.
• Pathologist: Examines the excised tissue.

Risks and Complications

• Infection at the excision site.
• Bleeding.
• Scarring or changes in skin pigmentation.
• Nerve damage leading to numbness or tingling.
• Recurrence of the lesion if not entirely removed.

Benefits

• Removal of the bothersome or unsightly lesion.
• Alleviation of any associated symptoms.
• Improved function and/or appearance.
• Histological confirmation of a benign nature.

Recovery

• Keep the excision site clean and dry as instructed.
• Take prescribed medications, including pain relievers and antibiotics, if provided.
• Avoid strenuous activities for a few days.
• Follow-up visit to check healing and possibly remove sutures, usually within 1-2 weeks.
• Monitor the site for any signs of infection or unusual changes.

Alternatives

• Observation if the lesion is not causing significant issues.
• Non-surgical options like cryotherapy or laser therapy, depending on the lesion type.
• Electrocautery to burn the lesion.
• Each alternative comes with its own risk and benefit profile, and should be discussed with the healthcare provider.

Patient Experience

During the procedure, patients will feel minimal discomfort due to local anesthesia. Post-procedure, there may be minor pain or discomfort which can be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers. Scarring and cosmetic appearance depend on the location and healing process; following care instructions can aid in achieving the best outcome.